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Staying connected in China

Getting your own phone, number, and data working in mainland China — before you land and once you're there.

Last checked July 2026

Each item below is a practical starting point; carrier terms, app access, and network behavior can change, so verify anything important before you travel.

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Can I use my US phone in China?Yes — with the right data plan. Any modern unlocked US phone works on Chinese networks.Jul 2026Physical SIM vs eSIM for ChinaFor most tourists: travel eSIM — install and test one before you fly.Jul 2026Hotel WiFi in ChinaIt works — but it's not a way around the blocks. Same domestic filtering as any local connection.Jul 2026Does Gmail work in China?No — not without help. Gmail is blocked along with the rest of Google's services.Jul 2026Do iMessage & FaceTime work?Yes — both are among the few Western messaging services that work normally in mainland China.Jul 2026

Keep exploring YouChina Wiki

Does X work in China? — streaming, social & AI appsCompare China travel eSIMsChina readiness checklistCompare VPN options for ChinaeSIM vs VPN — which do you need?Apps & payments in China

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